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I think the primary benefit of an electromagnetic coil gun in an environment like Japan would be the capability to build one using off the shelf and unmonitored
by hx8 2y ago
I think the primary benefit of an electromagnetic coil gun in an environment like Japan would be the capability to build one using off the shelf and unmonitored equipment. In the US it would be much easier to generate 3d printed guns, because finding ammunition with gunpowder inside is much easier.
The translation of the article is a little rough. It looks like maybe it was used as a curiosity instead of a tool for violence. I suspect actual criminals get along just fine with melee weapons and the occasional smuggled firearm.
This whole thing is cool in that it feels very much like a 21st century style crime. It's scary because I imagine disassembly would be an effective method of disposing of the murder weapon. In most jurisdictions it's possible to get a conviction without a murder weapon but requires more supporting evidence.
- lawlessone 2y agoI find it very hard to believe it's anything more than a toy especially given the small size.
- grapesodaaaaa 2y agoYou would be surprised. I have seen coil guys about this size do significant damage to thin wood boards or cardboard. Sure, it’s not going to do massive damage like a 7.62x51, but it’s still enough to seriously injure. I think the larger question is proliferation and intent within a culture. For example, I’m of the opinion knives are a tool, but they can easily be used as a weapon. There’s a huge grey area between hobbies, tools, and weapons. I think it’s up to the collective groups to decide what’s appropriate.
- grapesodaaaaa 2y agoI’m just curious with the downvotes to better myself - where was I off base?
- GJim 2y agoAn increasing number of HN users are now lazily downvoting things they disagree with, simply because they can't be arsed composing a coherent rebuttle. This leads to unpopular ideas being buried, groupthink and a lack of intelligent discourse..... ....And yes, this IS leading to this place becoming more and more Reddit like (no, that isn't a tired cliché, no matter what the FAQs claim). Downvoting should be reserved for comments that detract from the conversation. Perhaps meta-moderation is needed to ensure this happens.
- grapesodaaaaa 2y agoI appreciate the input. I recognize that I had brought up some issues that are polarizing (the article itself was a hot topic). I personally put a lot of thought into and struggle with gun/weapon legislation. I very much enjoy hearing from others, and it has helped shape my opinion in this area over the years. You do bring up a good point. I can’t help but wonder if there’s a better metric for comment “rank” rather than a binary up/downvote.
- lawlessone 2y agoI have no idea why, it was good reply
- hx8 2y agoI agree with that statement for this specific model. Maybe it's enough for lethal force, but probably less lethal than a kitchen knife. However larger and more powerful versions are possible. I think the lawmakers are correct in classifying this as a firearm, but perhaps the law should identify a minimum force threshold before it is classified as a weapon.
- gruez 2y ago>I think the primary benefit of an electromagnetic coil gun in an environment like Japan would be the capability to build one using off the shelf and unmonitored equipment. In the US it would be much easier to generate 3d printed guns, because finding ammunition with gunpowder inside is much easier. Why 3d printed guns? A CNC machine is also "off the shelf and unmonitored equipment", and would make a better gun than a 3d printed plastic gun that'll probably explode on you with one shot.